SEIZE THE MOMENT (HELEN'S FLIGHT)

Inspiration
This artwork was inspired by Helen Sharman, originally a chemist, she became the first British astronaut in space and was the first woman to visit the Mir Space Station during project Juno. Training in the programme at Star City for 18 months after being selected from 13000 applicants, she launched into space in 1991.

Technique
Seize The Moment (Helen's Flight) was created by constructing a hand-cut collage using female photographic portraiture, hand-printed surface textures of chemigrams and photographs of lunar craters. 

After coating the handmade paper with light-sensitive chemistry, it is left to dry in a dark room. The large scale negative is then contact printed onto the paper by exposing to daylight (UV rays). The print is then processed by thoroughly washing in water to remove any unexposed solution. It can then be hung to dry, developing to full density Prussian blue after 24 hours.

Dimensions
Unframed:  300mm x 420mm
Framed:      400mm diameter x 540mm x 25mm face

Paper
Handmade recycled cotton rag paper: 
320gsm / 100% Cotton Rag / Recycled / Acid Free / PH Neutral / Medium Rough

Mount
We use float mounting for all of our framed cyanotypes. The artwork floats above a snow-white mount board, showcasing the paper texture and deckled edging.

Framing
Framed artwork will arrive ready to hang.

Each frame is handmade by our London based design team. They prime and sand the wooden frame before spraying black or white soft-sheen paint to achieve the highest quality finish. All frames come with gallery spec, 3mm thick anti-reflective/ UV glazing as standard. 

If you would like a bespoke frame, please get in touch to discuss alternative colours, gilding and glazing options.